Knowing how to jump start your Subaru can be a lifesaver, especially if you're stranded with a dead battery. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions, ensuring you're prepared for any situation. We'll cover everything from gathering the necessary tools to safely connecting the cables and troubleshooting potential problems. Let's get started!
Essential Tools and Preparations
Before you begin, ensure you have everything you need. This will make the process smoother and safer:
- Jumper cables: Choose a heavy-duty set of jumper cables. Cheap cables can cause more problems than they solve.
- A working vehicle: You'll need another car with a fully charged battery to provide the jump.
- Safety glasses or goggles: Protecting your eyes is crucial, especially if battery acid splashes.
- Gloves (optional but recommended): These will protect your hands from dirt and potential acid exposure.
Step-by-Step Guide to Jump Starting Your Subaru
Important Safety Note: Always ensure both vehicles are turned OFF before connecting any cables.
Step 1: Park the Vehicles Strategically
Park the working vehicle close to your Subaru, ensuring that the vehicles don't touch. Ideally, you want the vehicles as close as possible without causing any damage.
Step 2: Locate the Batteries
Find the battery in both vehicles. In most Subarus, the battery is located in the engine compartment, usually secured in a tray. Consult your Subaru's owner's manual if you're unsure of the location.
Step 3: Prepare the Cables
Identify the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on both batteries. They are usually clearly marked. The positive terminal is typically red, and the negative terminal is black.
Step 4: Connect the Jumper Cables
- First Connection (Positive to Positive): Attach one end of the red jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal of your Subaru's dead battery.
- Second Connection (Positive to Positive): Attach the other end of the red jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal of the working vehicle's battery.
- Third Connection (Negative to Negative): Attach one end of the black jumper cable to the negative (-) terminal of the working vehicle's battery.
- Fourth Connection (Negative to Ground): Attach the other end of the black jumper cable to a bare metal part of your Subaru's engine block or chassis. Do not attach it to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This step prevents sparks near the battery, reducing the risk of explosion.
Step 5: Start the Working Vehicle
Start the working vehicle and let it run for a few minutes to charge the Subaru's battery.
Step 6: Start Your Subaru
Try to start your Subaru. If it doesn't start immediately, let the working vehicle run for a few more minutes before trying again.
Step 7: Disconnect the Cables (Reverse Order)
Carefully disconnect the jumper cables in the reverse order you connected them:
- Remove the black cable from your Subaru's chassis or engine block.
- Remove the black cable from the working vehicle's negative terminal.
- Remove the red cable from the working vehicle's positive terminal.
- Remove the red cable from your Subaru's positive terminal.
Step 8: Let Your Subaru Run
Let your Subaru run for at least 30 minutes to allow the battery to charge. This helps prevent re-occurrence of the dead battery situation.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Jumper Cables Not Working: Ensure the cables are securely connected to the terminals. Check for any loose connections or corrosion on the terminals.
- Subaru Still Won't Start: The battery may be completely dead or there might be another underlying issue with your car's electrical system. Consider calling a roadside assistance service or a mechanic.
- Sparks During Connection: This could indicate a loose connection. Ensure all clips are firmly attached. If you still experience sparks, seek professional help.
By following these steps and safety precautions, you'll be well-equipped to jump-start your Subaru and get back on the road quickly and safely. Remember to address the underlying cause of your dead battery to prevent future incidents.
